Black Water

Black Water is a memoir by David A. Robertson that traces his path to understanding his Cree heritage and reconnecting with his father Don. The narrative centers on their journeys together to Norway House, Manitoba - the ancestral lands where Don grew up living off the land before government policies changed his family's way of life. Robertson's story begins from a place of disconnection, having grown up in Winnipeg without knowledge of his Indigenous roots. His father Don, who lost touch with his native Swampy Cree language and customs after being sent to public school, had chosen with Robertson's non-Indigenous mother to shield their children from their Indigenous ancestry. Through visits to Norway House and conversations with his father, Robertson rebuilds their relationship while discovering his family history. The memoir moves between past and present, documenting both physical journeys on the land and internal journeys of identity. The book speaks to broader themes of cultural loss and reclamation, examining how family histories and ancestral connections can be both buried and unearthed across generations. It explores the complex ways Indigenous identity, family relationships, and connection to place intertwine.

Readers describe Black Water as a fast-paced supernatural thriller that weaves Indigenous folklore with modern mystery elements. The majority of reviews focus on the book's authentic portrayal of Indigenous culture and family relationships. Readers appreciated: - The respectful handling of Anishinaabe traditions - Strong character development, especially Morgan and Claire - The balance of supernatural elements with realistic family dynamics - Clear, accessible writing style Common criticisms: - Some found the pacing slow in the middle sections - A few readers wanted more detail about the supernatural aspects - Several mentioned predictable plot elements Ratings: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (150+ ratings) StoryGraph: 4.1/5 (300+ ratings) "A perfect blend of Indigenous storytelling and modern thriller," wrote one Amazon reviewer. Another Goodreads reader noted: "The cultural elements felt natural and educational without being preachy."

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🌟 Robertson is an award-winning Cree author with over 25 published books, including children's literature, graphic novels, and young adult fiction. 🏆 Norway House Cree Nation, where Robertson's family originates, has been a significant Indigenous community since the early 1800s and was once the largest Hudson's Bay Company trading post. 📚 The book's title "Black Water" refers to the dark waters of the Hayes River system, which holds deep cultural significance for the Norway House Cree people. 🎓 Growing up in Winnipeg, Robertson didn't learn about his Indigenous heritage until he was in his twenties - a common experience for many Indigenous people affected by the "Sixties Scoop" and residential school system. 🤝 The author wrote this memoir while his father was battling cancer, making their journey together particularly poignant as they worked to strengthen their bond and cultural connections before his father's passing.